Costa's Small Latte Price: The Latest Figures
As of recent UK price checks in 2025, a standard, or 'regular', Latte at Costa typically costs in the region of £4.40 to £4.49, depending on the specific store. Costa does not label its hot drinks with 'small,' but rather uses a system of small, medium, and large cups. The Working from Coffee Shops price guide from May 2025 indicates a standard latte at £4.40, while Uber Eats listings in different parts of the country reflect prices closer to £4.49. These minor differences are common and can be influenced by several factors, including local operational costs, which we'll explore in the next section.
Factors Influencing Your Coffee Price
While the base price provides a good starting point, several elements can alter the final amount you pay for a small latte at Costa. It is important to be aware of these potential costs if you are on a budget or simply want to maximize your value.
- Location: The most significant factor is location. As noted by the 2025 price guide, prices are often higher at airports, motorway service stations, and central London branches due to increased rent and operational expenses.
- Milk Alternatives: Switching from standard dairy milk to a plant-based alternative such as oat, almond, or coconut milk often incurs an extra charge. This can add a substantial amount to the cost of your small latte.
- Syrups and Extras: Customising your latte with flavour syrups, extra shots of coffee, or a sprinkle of chocolate on top can increase the price. Be mindful of these optional add-ons if you are looking to keep costs down.
- Seasonal Drinks: Costa's menu regularly features seasonal and limited-edition items, which are typically more expensive than the classic options.
- Loyalty and Deals: Conversely, participating in the Costa Club loyalty program and taking advantage of special meal deals can significantly reduce your overall expenditure.
How to Save Money on Your Costa Latte
Cost-conscious consumers have a number of options to ensure their daily caffeine fix is as affordable as possible. Here is a list of effective strategies to cut costs at Costa:
- Use the Costa Club App: The Costa Club loyalty program is one of the most generous in the UK. You earn a ‘bean’ for every drink purchased, and you can get a free drink after collecting eight beans. The app also sends out regular exclusive offers, double bean days, and random freebies, providing excellent value over time.
- Bring a Reusable Cup: By simply bringing your own reusable cup, you can earn two beans per drink, speeding up the time it takes to get a free one. This is not only a fantastic money-saving tip but also a great way to reduce waste.
- Look for Meal Deals: Costa often runs meal deals that combine a drink with a food item for a set price. Sometimes, these deals offer better value than buying the items separately, especially during breakfast or lunch periods.
- Stick to the Basics: For those focused purely on the cost, sticking to the standard hot drinks menu is the best bet. Avoiding premium flavoured lattes or extra shots and syrups will keep the price at its base level.
- Consider a Smaller Drink: If your local Costa uses the small, medium, large sizing system, always consider if the smallest size is sufficient. A small latte contains a single shot of espresso, which is often enough for a light caffeine boost.
Costa Latte Price Comparison
To put Costa's pricing into context, here is a comparison of typical standard latte prices at major UK coffee chains. Note that these are indicative prices and can vary by location and time.
| Coffee Shop | Standard Latte Price (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Coffee | £4.40 - £4.49 | Prices higher at airports/services |
| Starbucks | Higher than Costa | Generally seen as slightly more expensive |
| Caffè Nero | Competitive with Costa | Generally in line with Costa pricing |
| Pret A Manger | Competitive with Costa | Black coffee may be cheaper, but overall similar |
This table illustrates Costa's position within the competitive UK coffee market. While seen as a premium brand compared to fast food chains, its pricing for a standard latte is competitive with or slightly lower than its main high-street rival, Starbucks.
Conclusion: Your Coffee, Your Choice
In conclusion, the price of a small latte at Costa in the UK currently sits at approximately £4.40 to £4.49 for a standard size, but this is highly dependent on location and customisation choices. Savvy customers can mitigate costs by utilising the Costa Club loyalty app and bringing their own cup, or by simply sticking to the basic drink options. While inflation and local market conditions mean prices are subject to change, knowing the current benchmark gives you the information needed to make an informed decision on your next coffee run. For the most up-to-date information, checking the official Costa menu via their app or in-store is always recommended. For details on their full range of drinks, visit the official Costa Coffee UK menu page.
How to get the most accurate, current price
For the definitive, up-to-the-minute price on your small latte, your best options are:
- The Costa Club App: The app will reflect the current prices for your selected store when you choose to order ahead or use the in-app menu.
- Storefront Menu Board: Prices are always clearly displayed on the menu boards inside the coffee shop.
- Delivery Apps: Services like Uber Eats also show local pricing for specific stores, which can sometimes differ slightly.
Ultimately, the small latte at Costa remains a competitively priced option within the UK's high-street coffee scene, especially when you factor in the money-saving benefits of their loyalty program.
